Boks’ forward depth grows, but No 8 position remains a concern

THE Springboks’ dominance in world tugby currently owes much to their formidable pack of forwards, and they are arguably the most dominant in Test rugby at present.

- LEIGHTON KOOPMAN

Following the 2023 Rugby World Cup, South Africa’s forward depth remains a key weapon of their success. While a handful of senior players and second stringers were absent during the midyear Tests due to injuries and Steven Kitshoff retiring, others stepped up to the plate to stake a claim ahead of the Rugby Championship.

We take a look at the depth in the forwards.

Eighth man

This is probably the position that the Springboks are ‘concerned’ with the most. While they have players that can fill the gap at any given time, they haven’t, over the four matches that started the season, found a permanent stand-in. Jasper Wiese was out suspended; Evan Roos had limited minutes on the playing field.

Cobus Wiese stood in, but he is definitely not a long-term option for that position. Captain Siya Kolisi and Marco van Staden can also deputise, and they look like options during the Rugby Championship.

Loose forwards